KUBA ITOOM DIVINATION ANIMAL FIGURE 1, DRC

Rubbing or friction oracles are created in many forms. The best known
are the itoom rubbing oracles of Kuba and related peoples. These
may take the form of animals such as crocodiles, warthogs, dogs, and others.
The type we have, have a flat section on the back or top on which a small
plug-like element ( missing on this one) is rubbed during the divination
process. These have a fanciful variety of animal shapes and all exhibit
the Kuba love for abstract geometric patterning.

Despite its appearance, patina and insect damage to the top and one side,
this figure may have been made to be sold. The carving, however, is much
more intricate than on the newer examples. The crack on one side is old
and stable.